Liam Craig had given Saints the lead from the spot but once Graham Gartland was sent off for a professional foul seconds into the second half, the tide swung in the visitor's favour.

The former Nancy striker, Marc-Antoine Fortune, equalised in the 64th minute and notched a second from close range, either side of a Georgios Samaras drive, with substitute Paddy McCourt sealing the win with a late solo goal.

Celtic boss Tony Mowbray told Sky Sports: "Fortune works hard for the side, he brings a certain style of play in holding up the ball and bringing midfielders in. He plays his part for the team."

Mowbray had expected a difficult game, adding: "We knew they were going to make it very competitive. They are a physical side.

"We kept going. We knew in the second half we would create more chances. The sending-off was a turning point for them."